Reported / Citable
Background
The case was referred to U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters to take a felony guilty plea. Martin Roman-Barrera appeared with counsel and consented to having the magistrate judge conduct the plea proceeding.
Roman-Barrera pleaded guilty, without a plea agreement, to Count One of the indictment charging illegal reentry into the United States. Sentencing was reserved for the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Roman-Barrera understood the charge, potential penalties, and his rights; knowingly and voluntarily waived his rights; was competent to plead; and entered the plea freely and voluntarily. The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea.
The magistrate judge found Roman-Barrera guilty of the count to which he pleaded and recommended that the district court accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt. The recommendation remained subject to objections and district-court review.
Key Takeaways
- The defendant pleaded guilty to illegal reentry without a plea agreement.
- The magistrate judge found the Rule 11 plea requirements satisfied.
- The filing is a recommendation for the district judge, not a final acceptance of the plea by the district court.
Why It Matters
The opinion documents a completed plea colloquy and recommends acceptance of the plea, moving the criminal case toward sentencing. Parties had 14 days to object to the proposed findings and recommendation.